4 upcoming free agents the Carolina Panthers could extend on the cheap
By Dean Jones
Frankie Luvu – Carolina Panthers OLB
The Carolina Panthers made a shrewd move during the offseason by signing Frankie Luvu. There wasn’t much positive production to go off where the outside linebacker was concerned during his time on the New York Jets, but the impact he’s made throughout the campaign is worthy of a contract extension this offseason.
Luvu’s heart is matched by a sound instinct that allows him to be around the football consistently. The Panthers have used the Washington State product as a rotational piece more often than not, but every team needs strong depth on defense and this is why keeping him around is a necessity.
It’s unlikely Luvu would demand the earth during negotiations. This would allow Carolina to keep a core member of the team and have additional funds to spend on other key areas.
The player is counting just $1.1 million against the cap in 2021. Luvu might want a little more before agreeing to remain with the organization, but even a slight and deserved increase isn’t exactly going to break the bank.
Luvu is loved by teammates and fans alike. He is also a core special teamer, which is something Matt Rhule and his staff value highly in all their depth chart pieces.
As far as decisions go, this is a pretty easy one to make.